The Lairage Land

The Lairage Land is a nature reserve in Watford featuring open grassland and wooded sections that extend along the River Colne. The site supports a range of native plant species and provides habitat for birds, butterflies, and smaller wildlife throughout the year.

Watford Borough Council established this protected area to safeguard local plant and animal species and maintain natural habitats for the future. The designation as a nature reserve marked an important commitment to conserving the region's wildlife within an urban setting.

School groups from nearby areas visit regularly for outdoor lessons and discover local bird species and insects firsthand. For many in the community, the reserve serves as a place to connect with nature close to home and experience conservation in action.

Visitors can access the reserve through Jellicoe Road, where marked paths guide you through the open areas and woodland sections. Early morning visits offer the best chances to spot birds and butterflies when wildlife is most active.

The River Colne marks the southern boundary and creates a special habitat with its flowing waters. In slower-moving sections, you will find less common aquatic plants like stream water crowfoot and yellow water lily thriving naturally.